Rare Old Map of Bavaria by Ortelius, 1579: Munich, Nuremberg, Danube River, German Alps

"Bavariae, Olim Vindeliciae Delineationis Compendium Ex tabula Philippi Apiani Math" is a masterful creation by the renowned cartographer Abraham Ortelius, crafted in 1579. This exquisite map offers a detailed representation of Bavaria, showcasing the region's intricate network of rivers, including the prominent Danube and Donau Rivers. Extending from the majestic German Alps to the northern reaches of Nuremberg and Freiburg, this map captures the essence of 16th-century Bavaria with remarkable precision and artistry. The meticulous detailing of physical and political features makes this map not only a geographical guide but also a historical artifact.

Abraham Ortelius, celebrated for his pioneering work "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum," the first modern atlas of the world, brings his unparalleled expertise to this map. His dedication to accuracy and aesthetic beauty is evident in every aspect of the map's design. The decorative cartouches and ornate border designs reflect the artistic sensibilities of the Renaissance period, while the detailed illustrations of rivers, mountains, and forests provide a comprehensive view of the region's topography. Ortelius' work is a testament to the advancements in cartography during the late 16th century, bridging the gap between art and science.

The map's focus on Bavaria is complemented by its inclusion of major cities such as Munich, Regensburg, Augsburg, Ingolstadt, and Freiburg. These cities, depicted with meticulous detail, highlight the region's urban landscape and its significance in the historical and cultural context of the time. The map also delineates the political boundaries of Bavaria and surrounding regions, offering insights into the geopolitical landscape of the era. The intricate network of rivers and tributaries further enhances the map's utility as a navigational tool, while also showcasing the natural beauty of the region.

In addition to its political and urban features, the map also highlights the physical geography of Bavaria. The German Alps, with their rugged peaks and expansive ranges, are prominently displayed, providing a striking contrast to the lush forests and rolling hills of the region. The map's depiction of these natural features is not only accurate but also artistically rendered, capturing the essence of Bavaria's diverse landscape. The inclusion of these physical features adds depth and dimension to the map, making it a valuable resource for historians, geographers, and art enthusiasts alike.

The historical significance of this map extends beyond its geographical accuracy and artistic beauty. As part of Ortelius' "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum," this map represents a major milestone in the history of cartography. It reflects the growing interest in exploration and the desire to create comprehensive and accurate representations of the world. The map's detailed depiction of Bavaria and its surrounding regions offers a glimpse into the past, providing valuable insights into the political, cultural, and natural landscape of the time. This map is not just a navigational tool but a window into the history and heritage of Bavaria.

Cities and towns on this map

• Munich
• Nuremberg
• Augsburg
• Regensburg
• Ingolstadt
• Freiburg

Notable Features & Landmarks

• The Danube River
• The Donau River
• The German Alps
• Forested areas
• Mountain ranges
• The decorative cartouche with the map's title
• The ornate border design
• Rivers and tributaries
• Detailed illustrations of physical features
• Historical political boundaries

Historical and design context

• This decorative map by Abraham Ortelius shows Bavaria, centered on the Danube and Donau Rivers, and their tributaries.
• The map extends from the German Alps to Nuremberg and Freiburg in the north.
• Major cities include Munich, Regensburg, Augsburg, Ingolstadt, etc.
• The map was made in 1579.
• Abraham Ortelius is known for creating "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum," the first modern atlas of the world.
• The map delineates the political boundaries of Bavaria and surrounding regions.
• It includes physical features such as rivers, mountains, and forests.
• The map reflects the geographical understanding and political landscape of the late 16th century.
• The map is highly decorative, with elaborate cartouches and ornate border designs.
• It features detailed illustrations of physical and political features.
• The map is significant as part of Ortelius' "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum," which marked a major advancement in cartography and the creation of modern atlases.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 90in (230cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.